Figure 6-5. The infectious process cycle.
(c) Vehicle of transmission. The means by which organisms are
carried about include hands, equipment, instruments, china and silverware, linens, and
droplets.
(d) Portal of entry. The part of the body where organisms enter include
any break in skin or mucous membrane, the mouth, nose, and genitourinary tract.
(e) Susceptible host. A person who cannot fight off the organism once
it enters his body and therefore, he becomes ill.
(4) It is important that the nurse teach patients facts and practices about
surgical and medical asepsis. When teaching a patient you should:
(a) Observe the patient to identify areas where instruction would be
helpful in controlling the spread of infection.
(b) Act as a model by using sound practices of asepsis when giving
care.
(c) Provide guidance to the patient who must give himself care at
home in the proper way to handle sterile equipment and supplies and in how to sterilize
reusable items.
MD0905
6-8